What is the difference between S and L gear?

In most cars, S stands for Sport mode and L stands for Low gear. Sport mode generally keeps the engine revving higher and transfers power more aggressively for quicker throttle response, while Low gear provides maximum torque at low speeds and increases engine braking. Exact behavior varies by vehicle, so consult your owner’s manual for your specific model.

What S and L typically mean in modern transmissions

The two symbols describe different ways the drivetrain can adapt to driving needs. The following points cover common behavior across a broad range of cars.

Before listing, note the core differences you’ll usually notice in everyday driving:



• Engine RPM: S mode tends to hold higher revs to keep the engine ready for quicker acceleration.


• Throttle response: S mode often makes the throttle feel more responsive, so you get quicker throttle action from a push on the pedal.


• Shift strategy: S mode may delay upshifts and downshifts for a sportier, more immediate power delivery; L mode keeps gears in lower ranges longer for power at low speeds.


• Fuel economy: S mode generally reduces efficiency due to higher RPMs; L mode can also reduce efficiency if kept in low gears at higher speeds.


• Engine braking: L mode increases engine braking, helping control speed on descents or in slippery conditions.

Concluding: Sport (S) and Low (L) are designed to optimize different aspects of performance—S for responsiveness and drive feel, L for torque control and engine braking. Exact behavior depends on the vehicle, so always check your manual for specifics.

When to use S (Sport) mode

Here are common scenarios where Sport mode can improve driving dynamics or safety, along with a caveat about efficiency.

Useful situations for Sport mode include the following:



• Overtaking or merging on highways, where quicker throttle response helps you accelerate decisively.


• Driving on curvy roads or mountain passes, where sharper throttle input and delayed downshifts maintain momentum.


• Desiring a sportier driving feel, such as a more connected throttle and response for enthusiast driving.


• Be mindful that fuel economy typically drops in S mode due to higher engine speeds and more aggressive shifting.

Concluding: Sport mode is a performance-oriented setting that enhances throttle response and weightier gearing, at the expense of fuel efficiency. Use it when you want more immediacy from the engine, and switch back to Normal or Eco for everyday commuting.

When to use L (Low) gear or low-range

Low gear is intended for control in slow-speed or challenging conditions, and for maximizing torque at low RPMs. Consider these cases:

Common reasons to select Low gear include:



• Steep descents or slippery grades where engine braking helps maintain a safe, steady speed without overheating brakes.


• Towing or hauling heavy loads at low speeds, where you need consistent torque to start moving and maintain control.


• Low-speed maneuvering, off-road driving, or rock crawling where precise torque at low speeds is advantageous.


• Starting on very uneven surfaces where you want to minimize wheel spin and keep traction.

Concluding: Low gear provides maximum torque at low speeds and enhanced engine braking, making it suitable for descents, towing, and off-road situations. Avoid using L at highway speeds, as it can cause high engine revs and reduce efficiency.

Special cases and caveats

Automakers implement S and L differently depending on transmission type and drivetrain. Some hybrids use L to increase engine braking, while CVTs may simulate gear steps in S for a sportier feel. Four-wheel-drive systems may feature a true Low range in the transfer case (often labeled 4L or Low), which is separate from the transmission’s S/L behavior. Always refer to your vehicle’s manual for exact definitions and usage guidelines.

Concluding: While the general concepts are consistent—S for sportier, quicker responses and L for low-speed torque and engine braking—how they behave can vary. Know your model’s specifics to maximize safety and efficiency.

Summary

In short, S (Sport) sharpens throttle response and keeps revs higher for faster acceleration, while L (Low) prioritizes torque at low speeds and stronger engine braking for controlled starts, descents, and off-road or heavy-load scenarios. The exact implementation depends on the vehicle, so use the owner’s manual as your guide and switch modes based on driving conditions and efficiency needs.

When to use L and S gear?

Use S (Sport) gear for spirited driving, such as overtaking or navigating winding roads, as it holds gears longer for better acceleration and responsiveness. Use L (Low) gear for situations requiring maximum torque and control, like towing heavy loads or climbing and descending steep hills, to prevent the transmission from shifting up.
 
This video explains the function of S and L gears: 1mTA Automotive technologyYouTube · Jan 23, 2025
When to use S (Sport) gear

• Aggressive acceleration: The car will hold onto gears longer, keeping the engine in its powerband for quicker acceleration. 
• Winding roads: Provides better responsiveness and makes it easier to accelerate out of corners. 
• Towing or going uphill: In some vehicles, "S" can also be helpful for extra power on inclines, though "L" is often better for steep grades. 
• Note: Using "S" mode generally decreases fuel efficiency due to higher engine RPMs. 

You can watch this video to learn how to use S gear: 1mFM DRIVING SCHOOLYouTube · Jun 24, 2022
When to use L (Low) gear

• Steep hills: Use "L" to help the car climb steep inclines without the transmission shifting up, providing more power and preventing the engine from stalling. 
• Long descents: Using "L" for engine braking on steep downhill stretches helps control speed and reduces wear on your brakes. 
• Towing: It prevents the transmission from constantly shifting up and down while pulling a heavy load, providing more consistent torque and reducing strain on the gearbox. 
• Slippery conditions: Offers extra control on slippery surfaces like ice or mud. 

What is s and l?

"S and L" can refer to two different things depending on the context: in finance, it means savings and loan association, while in vehicles, it refers to "Sport" and "Low" gears in an automatic transmission. The meaning of S and L depends entirely on whether you are discussing banking or driving.
 
This video explains what S and L mean in a car's gear shift: 35sVehicle VisionaryYouTube · Jan 15, 2024
In finance

• S&L: is a common abbreviation for savings and loan association. 
• These are a type of financial institution that handles savings accounts and provides loans, historically focusing on home mortgages. 

In vehicles

• S stands for Sport Mode, which keeps the engine at a higher RPM for more responsive acceleration and a sportier feel.
• L stands for Low Gear, used for situations that require more torque, such as driving up a steep hill or for engine braking on a long downhill descent. 

Is L gear only for going uphill?

One common myth is that low gears are only for off-road driving or steep hills. While these are great uses, low gears are also helpful for towing or driving in stop-and-go traffic. Another misconception is that you can switch to low gears anytime. Always slow your speed before shifting to avoid straining your engine.

When should I drive in S gear?

Use "S" gear (Sport mode) for extra responsiveness and power when you need it, such as for faster acceleration, overtaking, or climbing steep hills. It is best for use in situations with open roads, like highways or country roads, where you can take advantage of increased performance without risking safety in crowded city areas or heavy traffic. 
This video explains when to use Sport mode for better performance: 56sTech and CarsYouTube · Sep 14, 2024
When to use S gear

• For extra acceleration: To get a boost in speed when passing other vehicles or to accelerate quickly onto a highway. 
• On steep hills: To help the engine maintain power while climbing and to provide engine braking when going downhill, which can help prevent overheating of the brakes. 
• On winding roads: To keep the engine in a lower gear for better control and to maintain power as you navigate curves. 
• On open highways: For responsive and powerful driving when there is no heavy traffic. 

When to avoid S gear

• In heavy city traffic: The vehicle will be more sensitive to your acceleration, which can be dangerous in crowded areas. 
• In crowded neighborhoods: Avoid using it in residential areas with pedestrians and children. 
• When prioritizing fuel economy: Sport mode is less fuel-efficient than standard "D" (Drive) mode. 

You can watch this video to learn how to use Sport mode in a Kia Soul: 0:27tankthe_hankReddit · Sep 24, 2020
How it works

• Increased RPM: "S" mode holds the gears longer, keeping the engine RPM higher for more power. 
• More responsive throttle: The accelerator becomes more sensitive, meaning the car will respond more quickly to your input. 
• Stiffer suspension: Some vehicles also have a stiffer suspension in Sport mode for sharper handling.